Dec 17, 2003

Suntory Gets the BluesSource: Various

Suntory Ltd. has decided to purchase Australian bioventure Florigene in order to develop blue carnations. The company is buying 97.1 percent of Florigene from its parent company Nufarm Ltd. in hopes to boost its research capabilities.

In 1995, Florigene scientists successfully implanted the “Blue Gene,” from a petunia into carnations, creating the very first blue range carnation.

Currently, a large amount of the most popular flower species (roses, carnations, gerberas and chrysanthemums) lack the “Blue Gene” to produce any type of blue hues including mauves, blues and purples.

Florigene has annual sales of approximately $2.1 million. In 1990 Florigene and Suntory joined forces to develop a blue rose however, they have yet to produce any.

GPN recognizes 40 industry professionals under the age of 40 who are helping to determine the future of the horticulture industry. These individuals are today’s movers and shakers who are already setting the pace for tomorrow.